Pretzel toffee bark is an irresistible combination of crunchy, salty pretzels layered with buttery toffee and rich chocolate. This no-fuss dessert delivers a perfect contrast of sweet and salty in every bite, making it ideal for holiday platters, snack trays, or edible gifts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Combines sweet, salty, crunchy, and buttery flavors
No special tools or candy thermometers required
Quick and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients
Great for parties, holidays, or homemade gifts
Stores well and can be made ahead of time

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Mini pretzels
Unsalted butter
Brown sugar
Semisweet or dark chocolate chips
Vanilla extract
Sea salt or flaky salt (optional, for topping)
Optional toppings: chopped nuts, crushed candy, or sprinkles

Directions

Prepare the base:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Arrange pretzels in a single layer to fully cover the surface.
Make the toffee layer:
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and stir in the brown sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil and cook for 3–4 minutes until thickened and bubbling, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
Pour and bake:
Carefully pour the hot toffee mixture over the pretzels, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes, until bubbling.
Add the chocolate:
Remove from oven and sprinkle chocolate chips over the hot toffee. Let them sit for 2–3 minutes until melted, then spread evenly over the surface.
Top and cool:
Sprinkle with sea salt or other toppings if desired. Let the bark cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for 1 hour to fully set.
Break and serve:
Once firm, break the bark into pieces and serve or package.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 20 small pieces
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Cooling Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

Nutty version: Sprinkle chopped almonds, pecans, or peanuts over the chocolate before it sets.
White chocolate drizzle: Add a drizzle of melted white chocolate on top for extra visual appeal.
Holiday version: Top with crushed candy canes or colored sprinkles for festive flair.
Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free pretzels for a gluten-free treat.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Freezing: Freeze in layers separated by parchment paper for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge or at room temperature.
Reheating: Not typically reheated; best enjoyed at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use white sugar instead of brown sugar?

Brown sugar is preferred for its rich, caramel flavor, but light brown sugar or a mix of white sugar with a tablespoon of molasses can work in a pinch.

Do I need a candy thermometer?

No, this recipe is designed to work without one. Just watch the toffee mixture closely as it boils and thickens.

Can I use other types of chocolate?

Absolutely. Milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even a swirl of both works well. Choose high-quality chocolate for the best flavor.

Why is my toffee separating?

This can happen if the butter and sugar are not mixed thoroughly or are overheated. Stir constantly and avoid high heat.

How do I keep the bark from sticking to the pan?

Use parchment paper or foil with a light coating of nonstick spray for easy removal.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it’s an excellent make-ahead treat. It stores well and even improves in flavor after a day or two.

Why isn’t my chocolate melting?

Let the chocolate chips sit on the hot toffee for a few minutes. If they still don’t melt, place the pan back in a warm oven for a minute or two.

Can I make this without baking?

You can skip the oven step by pouring the hot toffee directly over the pretzels, but baking helps set the base and ensures even caramelization.

What can I substitute for pretzels?

You can use graham crackers, saltine crackers, or a nut base if you want to experiment.

Can I package this for gifts?

Yes, it’s perfect for gifting. Just make sure it’s fully cooled and set before placing it in cellophane bags or containers.

Conclusion

Pretzel toffee bark is a crowd-pleasing treat that combines simple pantry ingredients into a deliciously addictive snack. With its balance of textures and flavors, this easy-to-make dessert is ideal for the holidays, parties, or any time you need a sweet and salty fix. It’s sure to become a staple in your homemade sweets collection.

Pretzel Toffee Bark

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A decadent triple layer chocolate cake made with rich cocoa, layered with creamy chocolate frosting, and perfect for special occasions or indulgent cravings.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Yield: 12–14 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Add eggs, vegetable oil, buttermilk, hot water, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined and smooth.
Divide the batter evenly among the three prepared pans.
Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
To make the frosting, beat the butter until light and fluffy. Add powdered sugar and cocoa powder gradually, beating to combine.
Slowly add heavy cream and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and spreadable.
Assemble the cake by spreading frosting between each layer and over the top and sides of the cake.
Chill for 15–20 minutes to set the frosting before serving if desired.